Marina Perez is crowned Miss LA Galaxy 2012

CARSON, Calif. (Friday, October 7, 2011) – Marina Perez from Upland, Calif. is the newly crowned winner of the Miss LA Galaxy 2012 contest. As part of her award she earned a paid position on the 2012 court, $1,000 cash prize, gift card courtesy of Macy’s, gift certificate for travel from Bixby Travel Company, flower bouquet, crown and embroidered satin sash and gifts from participating sponsors.

An office specialist for the City of Ontario, Perez defeated eight other finalists in the contest, which was held on the main concourse of The Home Depot Center prior to the Galaxy’s game against Real Salt Lake on Saturday, October 1.

“The moment my name was called was surreal, such a blessing,” said Perez, who holds a bachelor’s degree in international finance from the University of La Verne. “I am so grateful to everyone for all of their love and support."

Among her hobbies, she enjoys traveling, playing tennis, visiting the beach and watching Galaxy games, among other things. She also enjoys being a classroom volunteer for Elderberry Elementary School, volunteering for Heal the Bay, supporting and volunteering for HOPE, a local animal rescue organization, and is a volunteer for the Legends Football Club, a local club soccer organization for kids. One day, she would like to work for an organization that promotes education and helps at-risk children.

Those named to the 2012 Miss LA Galaxy court were: 1st Runner Up Emily Brantley, who receives a paid position on 2012 court, $400 cash Prize, flower bouquet and embroidered satin sash, 2nd Runner Up Ivana Rojas, who receives a paid position on the 2012 court, $350 Cash Prize, flower bouquet and embroidered satin sash, and 3rd Runner Up Nicole Eggers, who receives a paid position on the 2012 court, $250 Cash Prize, flower bouquet and embroidered satin sash.

Veronica Salas was chosen by her fellow Miss LA Galaxy finalists as Miss Congeniality and will receive a gift certificate courtesy of Macy’s. In addition to being named to the 2012 court, Ivana Rojas was also voted the Fan’s Choice Winner and will receive a $100 cash prize for receiving the largest number of votes that were cast online.

All finalists, including the 2012 court, received a gift bag, including products and gift certificates from Macy’s, cb Shilkret designs, products from Beauty Bee, Mac Cosmetics and various Galaxy prizes.

The Miss LA Galaxy contest was created to recognize females who are involved in their community, support community soccer and the LA Galaxy. The winner was chosen based on her poise, confidence, public speaking abilities and academic success.

For more information about the Galaxy, please call 1-877-3-GALAXY or visit the club’s official website at www.lagalaxy.com.